Written by Alex Stojanovic TRACK LISTING Sharpen The Guillotine Betrayed Ministry Of God The Hum Downfall Of The Nation One Of Us The Die Is Cast Witching Hour Farewell Martyrs Of Chicago Release Date: May 4, 2018 Label: Century Media Records Website: www.angelusapatrida.com www.facebook.com/angelusapatrida www.twitter.com/angelusapatrida |
Guillermo Izquierdo - Lead vocals & guitars David G. Alvarez - Guitars & backing vocals
Jose Izquierdo - Bass & backing vocals Victor Valera - Drums & backing vocals
The album's opening track "Sharpen The Guillotine" sees the band incredibly angry at the penalties people face for free speech. Musically, it's also the fastest track found on the record. Instead of going heavy all the way through, the melodic elements help create hills and valleys in order to keep things interesting for the listener. I've heard some albums that tend to go heavy from start to finish and things got tedious really quick. The melodic choruses in "Sharpen The Guillotine", "Betrayed", "The Die Is Cast" and "Witching Hour" are among some of my favourite choruses on the record. The Testament influence is clearly heard on "The Hum", especially in the chorus, where it gives a little homage to "Disciples Of The Watch", and Guillermo Izquierdo even goes into Chuck Billy vocal territory with his aggressive lower register. This is another one of my favourite moments.
While highly proficient at thrash, Angelus Apatrida never fail to deliver on the slamming grooves, like on "Witching Hour" and "Betrayed". "Farewell" tones things down a few notches after eight tracks of relentless heaviness. The track is dedicated in memory of a fan and friend of the band who lost a battle with cancer. I certainly enjoyed this track, but I'm not sure if the thrash purists will quite enjoy it as much. The only track that I found to be a miss was "Downfall Of The Nation". It's not terrible as a whole, and it features a few decent moments, but it contains a few more filler moments compared to the other songs.
To sum everything up, Cabaret De La Guillotine is a pretty by-the-numbers thrash album, combined with face-smashing riffs and great melodies. Angelus Apatrida clearly know their strengths and execute them well, but I did find the album a bit predictable, and this is coming from a huge thrash fan. To date, Angelus Apatrida have yet to do a tour of North America. I certainly hope that they can make it happen soon, and make a stop in Toronto, whether headlining or supporting. Gran álbum chicos!
Highs: "Sharpen The Guillotine", "The Hum", "The Die Is Cast" and "Witching Hour"
Lows: "Downfall Of The Nation"
Final Rating: 7/10
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